Åndalsnes

The tiny town surrounded by trolls and giants

Åndalsnes is a small town at the end of Romsdalsfjord, framed by dramatic peaks and winding rivers. Known as the mountaineering capital of Norway, it’s a gateway to some of the country’s most impressive scenery.

The town grew from fishing and industry but is now celebrated for outdoor adventure and spectacular landscapes. It also serves as the end station of the Rauma Railway, one of Europe’s most beautiful train journeys.

Nearby stands Trollveggen (also known as the Troll Wall) Europe’s tallest vertical mountain face standing proud at 1,100 metres (3,600 feet). Local legends speak of trolls turned to stone when caught by the morning sun, their shapes forming the jagged cliffs that loom over the valley.

From the town, you can hike the Romsdalseggen Ridge, drive the twisting Trollstigen road, or climb up to the Rampestreken viewpoint. All 3 options will offer sweeping views across Åndalsnes, Romsdalsfjord and the towering mountains that surround the region.